Envisioning 2020, Preparing for Future Global Demand

[3]Although I have never attended the International Livestock Congress-USA, I have heard great reviews from those that have participated in this event. I have been asked to pass some information along to generate interest for this program, and to invite all of you to take part in a 10-minute survey about your cattle operation. I just completed the survey, and the questions were pretty easy and straight forward. The survey is designed to gauge the short term (next two years) planning intentions of ranchers across the country (and internationally). Survey results will be released and discussed at the 2010 International Livestock Congress-USA to be held in Denver, Jan. 11-12, 2010.

To give your input on your short term planning goals for your cattle operation, click here[4].

The program committee is excited to provide a world class program with a slate of domestic and international presenters at this event. Envisioning 2020 – Preparing for Future Global Demand is the topic of this year’s International Livestock Congress-USA. The keynote speaker will be Richard Brown, London, England, partner in GIRA Euroconsulting. GIRA is a French-based international organization which offers strategic marketing consultancy and research throughout the food industry. Brown will provide summary projections and analysis of the global beef industry based on the general economic outlook of the global financial system and global market developments. Other speakers at this year’s ILC include: Wesley Batista, JBS Swift; Erin Daley, U.S. Meat Export Federation; Greg Bloom, Colorado Meat Packers; Rob Shuey, Tyson Foods, Inc.; Jeff Simmons, Elanco Animal Health; John Maddux, Maddux Cattle Company, Nebraska; Kevin Yon, Yon Family Farms, South Carolina; Butch Bratsky, Stockman Bank, Montana; and Colin Woodall, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. The cost of the conference is $175 per person or $100 for students before December 11, 2009 and includes a continental breakfast, a buffet lunch, and grounds admittance to the National Western Stock Show.

In the meantime, I would also like to hear your short term plans for your cattle operation. Tell me your goals for 2010 and beyond. As always, leave your thoughts in the comments section. Your input could create an informative, valuable dialogue to consider with other beef producers. In addition, have you checked out the new poll on the BEEF website? The poll asks, "Are cattlemen or processors most responsible for controlling E. coli O157:H7 contamination in beef?" Vote today! Thanks again for your input. I really appreciate your participation.

BEEF Daily Quick Fact: Eight pairs of cowboy boots can be made from one cowhide. (Source: The Cattle Pages[6])